Proud to represent India's craft at the highest level: Rahul Mishra

New Delhi: Designer Rahul Mishra, who is the first Indian to win the coveted International Woolmark Prize (IWP) in Milan, says it is a blend of "deeply rooted Indianness" presented with a modern approach which will drive budding designers to global visibility.

Mishra was announced the winner of the 2013-14 (IWP) during the final awards event held at the Triennale Museum on Friday.

The Delhi-based designer sounded excited and emotional as he spoke to a news agency following his victory at IWP, where international icons Yves Saint Laurent and Karl Lagerfeld have won in the past.

"I think at this moment, it is going to inspire numerous aspiring designers of our country to choose a path which is deeply rooted in Indianness, but modern in totality," Mishra said.

His Merino wool collection, which won the prestigious award, attempted to portray the journey of human race and the process of metamorphosis that our planet has undergone in the last century.

The feeling of victory is still sinking in for the designer, who says he got emotional soon after his name was announced.

"It feels amazing...it is so surreal and it is still sinking in. It's like winning at the Olympics! I had gone as an underdog. I am very proud that I could show a new side of Indian fashion and represent India's craft at the highest level,” he said.

"These 30 minutes (of presenting my line) in my life have redefined my own brand as well as my support system in terms of handloom and handicraft. I am a very proud Indian now because I could showcase the true India in front of so many people and while competing with the best talents in the world," he said.